Harry W. Varcelli

Harry W. Varcelli, age 63, beloved father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away surrounded by his three children on September 20, 2025, following a courageous 11-month battle with stage IV pancreatic cancer. 

 Harry was the proud and loving father of Ashley New (Bradley), Alicia Pollice (Nicholas), and Matthew Varcelli. His greatest joy in life was being "Papa" to his seven grandchildren-Bradley, Audrey, and Emily New, Dominic, Daniella, and Giovanna Pollice, and Matteo Varcelli. To them, he was more than a grandfather; he was a playmate, the biggest fan at their sporting events, and a constant source of unconditional love. His grandchildren will forever cherish their countless memories with him-sleepovers with pancakes or waffles in the morning, swimming in his pool, movie nights with popcorn, spaghetti dinners with his famous sauce, trips for ice cream, adventures to Cedar Point, vacations to Disney and Niagara Falls, and many Christmas traditions.

Born on July 27, 1962, in Cleveland, Ohio, Harry grew up in a large and close-knit family. He was the cherished son of the late Michael and Arlene (nee Tabasso) Varcelli, and the beloved brother of Michele Zychowski (Jim), Michael (Kathy), Joseph (Linda), Roseann Varcelli-Walters (Kirk), and Anthony (Donna). His family will forever remember his loyalty, generosity, and the way he could light up family gatherings with his smile and humor.

After graduating from Brush High School, Harry attended horticulture classes at Cleveland State University. At just 18 years old, he turned his passion for hard work and the outdoors into a lifelong career as the owner of Varcelli Landscaping, serving loyal clients since 1980. He was admired not only for his tireless work ethic and "never give up" attitude, but also for the way he treated his employees and customers like family. Truly gifted at his craft, he created beauty with nature everywhere he went.

Harry's heart, however, was always with his children and grandchildren. He never missed an opportunity to cheer from the sidelines, celebrate milestones, or offer words of encouragement. He was the type of man who put others' needs before his own. Whether sharing a laugh with friends, enjoying a Cavs game with his brother, or simply babysitting his grandkids, Harry lived life with a warmth that touched everyone around him.

Those who knew him best will remember his fierce love for family, his sense of humor, and his ability to face life's challenges with courage. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled and the memories he created. Harry's love for his family, friends, and life itself was evident in the strength and resilience he showed throughout his fight to stay with us.

Contributions in Harry's memory may be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation online at Pancreatic Cancer Financial Help and Support HERE.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Harry's life at DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Center of Chesterland, 12811 Chillicothe Road (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.), on Saturday from 12-4 PM. A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 11:30 AM at DeJohn Funeral Home. Cremation will follow, with private burial at All Souls Cemetery at a later date.